LAX Terminal Guide: Airlines, Maps, Parking & Transfers

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), located at 1 World Way, Los Angeles, CA 90045, serves over 75 million passengers annually as a major hub for airlines like American, Delta, Southwest, and United, along with international carriers such as Air France, Emirates, and Lufthansa. The airport features nine terminals arranged in a U-shaped layout, including Terminals 1 through 8 and the Tom Bradley International Terminal (TBIT, also called Terminal B), facilitating efficient departures on the upper level and arrivals on the lower level.

Understanding LAX’s U-Shaped Layout and Terminal Flow

The distinctive horseshoe design positions terminals around a central parking and road system, allowing for straightforward access via shuttles or walking paths. Departures occur on the upper roadway, while arrivals handle baggage claim and ground transport below. Terminals connect airside (post-security) via walkways and shuttles, enabling seamless transitions without reclearing security for most domestic connections. International arrivals primarily process through TBIT, with customs and immigration services there before onward travel.

Detailed Terminal Breakdown

Each terminal hosts specific airlines, gates, and facilities. Here’s an overview:

• Terminal 1: Serves Allegiant, Breeze Airways, Frontier, Sun Country, Cayman Airways, and Viva Aerobus. Passengers check in here but are bused to TBIT for flights and return for baggage. Features basic amenities with connections to Terminal 3 airside.
• Terminal 2: Primarily for WestJet (check-in only; departures from Terminal 3 gates). Offers modern seating and charging stations. Shares security and baggage with Terminal 3.
• Terminal 3: Delta’s main hub with 11 gates (20-38 series). Hosts Aeromexico and Virgin Atlantic check-ins; international arrivals at TBIT. Includes a massive 30,000 sq ft Delta Sky Club, Sky Deck outdoor area, nursing rooms, and pet relief stations post-security.
• Terminal 4: American Airlines hub with connections to Terminals 5, B, 3, and 1 airside. Underground tunnels link to neighbors.
• Terminal 5: American Airlines, JetBlue, Spirit. 16 gates (50-59 series). Domestic arrivals here for some; internationals at TBIT. Airside shuttle to Regional Terminal and walkways to adjacent terminals.
• Terminal 6: Alaska Airlines. International arrivals possible; check with airline. Connections via walkways.
• Terminal 7: United Airlines and United Express. Shares ticketing and baggage with Terminal 8; walkway to Terminal 8 airside.
• Terminal 8: Exclusively United operations. Free movement to Terminal 7 post-security.
• Terminal B (TBIT): Primary international gateway with West Gates shuttle bus to remote gates. Connectors to Terminals 4 and 3. Hosts arrivals for many carriers like American, Delta internationals.

Airline Assignments at a Glance

Data sourced from official maps and guides. Always verify with your airline for updates.

Navigating Connections Between Terminals

Airside connections streamline travel: Terminals 1-3 link directly; 4-8 connect via walkways (10-15 minutes between each). From Terminal 4, reach TBIT, 3, or 1. TBIT bridges to 4 and 3. For West Gates at TBIT, use the airside shuttle from Terminal 1-3 connector. LAX Shuttle A buses serve landside movement between all terminals. Connecting passengers avoid rechecking bags if no customs needed.

Parking and Ground Transportation Options

LAX offers extensive parking inside the U (Economy Lots A/B/C, Central Terminal Area) and outside (P1-P7). Electric shuttles whisk passengers to terminals in minutes. Rideshares like Uber/Lyft pick up curbside upper level; taxis and shuttles lower level. FlyAway buses connect to Metro, UCLA, and more. Public transit via LAX Route C to Green Line[10].

• Short-term parking: CTA garages, $5/hour up to $35/day.
• Economy lots: $25-30/day with free shuttles.
• Valet: Upper level convenience.

Amenities and Services Across LAX

LAX blends LA vibe with practical features. Post-security highlights include Delta Sky Club in Terminal 3, Gameway gaming lounges, InMotion entertainment shops, nursing rooms, pet relief areas, and upcoming retail expansions in Terminal 3. Accessibility: Strategic placements for wheelchairs, service animals. Art installations and efficient signage aid navigation[10].

Essential Traveler Tips for LAX

• Arrive 3 hours early for internationals, 2 for domestics.
• Use the flylax.com app for real-time maps and flight info.
• Security: TSA PreCheck/CLEAR at multiple checkpoints (T3 shared with T2).
• Baggage: Claim and recheck for intl-domestic connections post-customs.
• Construction: Allow extra time; follow pink “LAX Shuttles” signs[10].

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which terminal is Delta at LAX?

Delta operates from Terminal 3 for check-in, departures, and most domestic flights. International arrivals land at TBIT, then shuttle or walk to T3.

How do I get between LAX terminals?

Airside: Walkways between 1-3, 4-8, TBIT-4/3 (10-15 min). Landside: LAX Shuttle A or rideshares. Airside shuttle for TBIT West Gates.

Where do international flights arrive at LAX?

Primarily TBIT (Terminal B). Some airlines bus from Terminal 1 check-in. American and Delta intl also at TBIT.

Is there parking at LAX?

Yes, CTA garages, economy lots with shuttles, and off-site options. Reserve via flylax.com.

What airlines fly out of Terminal 5?

American Airlines, JetBlue, Spirit. American may use T4 or TBIT for intl.

Future Developments at LAX

Ongoing projects include Terminal 3 expansions with more gates and concessions, plus a new Automated People Mover (APM) train linking parking, terminals, and transit by 2025-2026, reducing road congestion[10]. Check flylax.com for updates.